Iraq’s first integrated general medical education ward for women was inaugurated at Sayeda Khadija Hospital (peace be upon her), in the presence of the representative of the Supreme Religious Authority, His Eminence Sheikh Abdul Mahdi Al-Karbalaey.

In his address, Sheikh Al-Karbalaey emphasized that Sayeda Khadija Hospital is not limited to obstetrics or pediatrics, but aspires to become a comprehensive medical institution encompassing a broad range of specialties, including highly advanced and complex fields.

He explained that the hospital’s establishment is grounded in two key pillars: first, its founding mission—primarily dedicated to serving women—and second, its commitment to scientific collaboration between Al-Sibtayn International University and various medical institutions, alongside openness to partnerships with leading international universities.

He further outlined three core principles guiding the project: scientific rigor, professional competence, and human-centered medical ethics, noting that these elements form the foundation of a truly integrated healthcare institution.

He added that dedicating the hospital to women respects their privacy, while its services extend well beyond limited specialties to include a diverse spectrum of medical disciplines, including highly specialized fields.

Sheikh Al-Karbalaey also stressed the importance of supporting female physicians in pursuing advanced and complex specialties—such as neurosurgery and spinal surgery—to achieve greater integration in healthcare services and strengthen women’s role in the medical sector.

He concluded by highlighting efforts to promote academic and scientific integration between the hospital and the university, as well as collaboration with international institutions, through the development of educational and research facilities that support the professional growth of medical staff. He emphasized that building a competent physician requires not only scientific excellence, but also strong human values, including compassion, effective communication, and professional ethics.